Gisborne SPCA warns dog owners not to leave pets in hot cars

It is an offence to leave a dog in a hot vehicle if they are showing signs of heat stress, such as excessive panting, drooling or hyperventilation. Photo / NZME

The Gisborne SPCA has warned of the dangers of leaving your dog in a car as the temperature warms up.

The SPCA shared on Facebook information from its website that can also be downloaded and encouraged people to get the word out about the danger heat poses for dogs.

“On a warm day, the temperature inside a car can reach over 50C in under 15 minutes.

“Cracking windows and parking in the shade does little to help. Heat stroke is a serious condition for dogs with a 39-50% mortality rate,” the SPCA wrote.

Dogs affected by extreme heat may pant excessively, drool, hyperventilate, or try to get into the shade.

“If a dog shows signs of heat stress, you can be fined and prosecuted under the Animal Welfare Act 1999,” the SPCA wrote.

“If you see a dog in a hot car, call 0800 SPCA NZ or the police.”